Muscat – Oman has boosted efforts to promote the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the labour market with new figures showing a steady increase in private sector employment during the first half of 2026.

According to statistics released by the Ministry of Labour, in cooperation with the Ministry of Social Development as part of the Purple Saturday initiative, 2,811 persons with disabilities are currently employed in the private sector across the sultanate. The figure was around 2,500 at the end of 2025.

The data also showed that 542 persons with disabilities secured employment in private sector establishments for the first time or returned to work during the first six months of 2026, reflecting continued progress in creating more inclusive workplaces and expanding employment opportunities.

In addition to job placements, government efforts have focused on improving awareness of labour rights and ensuring that employees with disabilities are familiar with legal protections available to them. During the reporting period, 140 beneficiaries participated in awareness workshops on the provisions of the Labour Law designed specifically for employees with hearing impairments.

The figures were announced as part of the national Purple Saturday campaign, which seeks to raise awareness of the rights of persons with disabilities and encourage their full participation in society. The campaign also highlights the importance of collaboration between government institutions and the private sector in creating accessible and supportive working environments.

Oman has continued to implement policies aimed at increasing workforce participation among persons with disabilities through employment facilitation programmes, workplace accessibility measures and awareness campaigns targeting employers.

Officials say expanding employment opportunities not only promotes economic independence for persons with disabilities but also enables businesses to benefit from a wider and more diverse talent pool. The government has repeatedly emphasised that equal access to employment is a key pillar of social development and sustainable economic growth.

The latest figures underline the country’s ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive labour market, while encouraging private sector companies to continue supporting the recruitment, retention and professional development of persons with disabilities.